In a surprising but strategic move, Indiana Pacers General Manager Chad Buchanan has officially announced the signing of a new center just days after franchise cornerstone Myles Turner confirmed his departure in free agency.
The Pacers have signed veteran big man Jonas Valančiūnas to a two-year, $34 million deal, sources close to the organization confirm. The 6-foot-11 Lithuanian brings size, experience, and a physical presence in the paint, qualities the Pacers are looking to maintain in the wake of Turner’s exit.
“We knew replacing Myles wouldn’t be easy he’s been the heart of our defense for nearly a decade,” Buchanan said during the press conference. “But Jonas gives us a proven interior force, leadership, and toughness that our young core will benefit from tremendously.”
